Vail Daily obituary: Benita Cruz, 1922-2013

She was born in Chamisal, N.M., to Rosalia and Eugenio Arellano on July 19,1922. She resided in Minturn since 1957 with her husband (Nash) and two daughters (Stella and Emily).

Benita had a green thumb, and made every plant and flower flourish. She enjoyed crocheting doilies and sewing quilts the old-fashioned and hand-tied way. When she finished them, she would give them to friends and family. Benita loved cooking for her family, she loved people, and was never shy about speaking her mind. She had a quick wit about her. (You never really knew what might come out of her mouth!) She had a heart of gold and would never hesitate to help someone in need.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ignacio (Nash) Cruz, her parents and two brothers. She is survived by her two daughters, Stella Cruz and Emily (Ray) Trujillo; three grandchildren, Ray (Alyssa) Trujillo Jr., Teresa (Fred) Pena and Adam (Jennifer) Trujillo; five great-grandchildren, Emmalee Trujillo, Arianna Pena, Logan Trujillo, Elias Pena and Aubree Trujillo; three sisters; two brothers; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Mary’s at 10 a.m. Wednesday.

Rosary is scheduled at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Eagle at 7 p.m. Tuesday.

Interment will be in Riverview Cemetery in Minturn.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Cancer Society or Eagle County Hospice.